We previously heard that Plants vs. Zombies 2 will hit iOS later this month. Today, Seattle-based game publisher PopCap Games announced that the sequel to the widely popular franchise is coming to an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad near you on July 18.

Unlike the original, the sequel will be released as a free download with the obligatory in-app purchases, but don’t worry – PopCap promises that the vast majority of the game will be entirely free to play. Go past the fold for more details and a brand new promo trailer…

Here, check out the trailer.

According to a media release, Plants vs. Zombies 2 will offer new worlds with new levels, plants, plant food that supercharges plants and zombies, along with brand new power-ups that let you “break the fourth wall” and interact with zombies directly, as well as via plant defenses.

“New ways to play” will be released on an ongoing basis in the months and years following launch, PopCap claims.

Here’s the blurb:

Designed from the ground up as a live service, the ever-expanding universe of Plants vs. Zombies 2continues the epic struggle of plants defending your brainz against zombies from your backyard through the vast reaches of time, both past and future.

The addled neighbor Crazy Dave is returning for the sequel to guide you as you purchase plant upgrades and other tools and weapons.

The game will be release exclusively for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch on the App Store and previewed by invitation only at E3 in Los Angeles next week.

In the meantime, grab a copy of the original Plants vs. Zombies game, which landed on the App Store in 2010 and ranked as Apple’s twelfth all-time paid iPhone app. Unlike the paid-for original game, the sequel will be offered as a free-to-play download.

PopCap ensures that the vast majority of the game will be entirely free to play – you’ll be able to “face every zombie and access every level in every world” at no cost. Of course, hard-core gamers looking to maximize their score will be able to do so by purchasing upgrades and other in-game items.

I must admit I’ve never been a huge fan of the series, but I’d love to hear whether you intend on giving Plants vs. Zombies 2 a try.

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I hate IAP. I would much rather pay 5-6 dollars up front for this game like I did for the first one

Bob George

I rather pay 10-15 dollar for such superb game and not having to buy anything ingame. Ingame purchases makes me feel I am being ripped off.

bloodshed

and they say it’s the future!!

Jack Wong

I do have the same feeling as you…

We all hate “monthly” subscription, just like our smartphone plan, the phone is cheaper but we are just paying that month by month… in 2 years.

And Bloodshed is right, that is the future…

Dan

I have to admit that I’m pretty pissed about this game being free. I really enjoyed the first one. I don’t like being harassed to spend in game. I prefer to pay for a good polished game, freemium just feels cheap.

jo

Well these are good developers. I don’t think they’ll harass us like a bunch of them do. But you never know.

Chindavon

Took them long enough

Andy

Indeed, it’s about time!

Dave Weinstock

I hope EAs Tetris Blitz isn’t any indication to how pvz2 will end up. Freakin ads EVERYWHERE! I’d rather pay 3 bucks for the game and just include everything, with no ads.

Tom Canuck

arg. just charge me the $5-8 and give me a full game. It really ruins the experience to have a game/app constantly beg for money. EA is going to ruin PvZ :<

jo

I remember when Real Racing 3 was free. It was terrible because you had to wait an hour (really) to get your car delivered or pay. I hope PvZ doesn’t do that kind of thing. I have a feeling the game is going to be great. But maybe not.

jo

Yes! I can’t wait! I’ll get it the day it’s released.

Crowned_59

PvZ 2 Its About Time is aptly named i believe. Can’t wait for this game love the CGI trailer very cool and i saw a lot of very cool new plants!